From Immigrant to Entrepreneur: The Journey of Mariya Rusciano
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Posted By: Desiree Burgess on December 09, 2024 When Mariya Rusciano arrived in America over two decades, she carried with her a simple dream: to find better opportunities for herself. However, what she found was far more than she ever anticipated—an experience that led to personal growth, a deep sense of community, and a profound feeling of gratitude. For the past 12 years, she and her husband own Menomale Pizza Napoletana in Washington, D.C. with her husband who is from Italy. Their restaurant reflects her and her husband’s entrepreneurial success, resilience, and strong sense of empathy. Originally from Bulgaria, Mariya arrived in the U.S. with aspirations of achieving a better life. She quickly realized that her journey would unfold in unexpected ways. “I came to America seeking better opportunities for myself,” she reflects, her calm voice underscoring the depth of her experience. “But what I found here was so much more than I ever imagined. It wasn’t just about achieving personal success—it was about learning and growing alongside people from all walks of life.” Mariya’s path to success, however, was built not only on her drive and ambition but also on a solid educational foundation. She earned a degree in Radio/Television Production from the University of Central Florida, followed by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certificate. Currently, she is pursuing a degree in Digital Media at the University of the District of Columbia, combining her professional knowledge with a passion for creativity. At the heart of Mariya’s story is a commitment to connection and understanding. She has come to appreciate that the most important lesson she’s learned in both her personal life and business is the value of patience and empathy. “People here have a genuine interest in learning about your background,” she shares, her eyes lighting up. “Everyone has an ancestry story to share, and through that, I’ve learned to put myself in others’ shoes. That’s how you grow—by understanding their perspective.” Over the years, this ability to connect with others has shaped her as both a person and an entrepreneur. Mariya believes that by recognizing the humanity in each person, we enrich our own lives and open ourselves to new experiences. This empathy not only informs her relationships but also her approach to business. Owning a small business has taught Mariya to appreciate the complexities behind every product and service. “It’s not just about the end result; it’s about the effort, the challenges, and the people involved,” she says. “A business is as much about the people behind it as it is about the product.” Menomale Pizza Napoletana is a reflection of these values—whether it’s the employees who pour their heart into every dish or the customers who enjoy the authentic Neapolitan pizza, it’s the connections that truly matter. For Mariya, those connections are the heart of her business. She stresses that creating meaningful relationships with both customers and employees is key to success. “Whether it’s a customer walking through the door or an employee giving their best, it’s all about understanding and connecting,” she says. “And that connection is what makes everything worthwhile.” Menomale is more than just a restaurant—it’s a space where love, community, and hospitality thrive. Despite the challenges that come with entrepreneurship, Mariya’s faith remains her guiding force. “I trust that God answers my prayers by giving me tasks that lead to growth,” she says, her expression serene. “When things get tough, my faith reminds me that everything has a purpose, and there’s always something to learn.” For Mariya, success is not measured by wealth or recognition but by the health and happiness of her family. “As long as my family and I are healthy, we can face any challenge,” she reflects. “Everything else is manageable with hard work and discipline.” Mariya’s faith also shapes how she raises her daughters and leads her business. “The Bible teaches you to be honest, kind, and to work hard,” she says. “These are the values I want my daughters to carry with them.” As a mother, Mariya sees her daughters as a pure reflection of God’s image—loving, truthful, and full of joy. “Children are full of love and joy,” she says, her face softening as she speaks of them. “I want them to hold onto that love and joy as they grow and face the world.” Looking back on her two decades in America, Mariya sees a life full of blessings, shaped by growth, learning, and love. Through patience, empathy, and faith, she has built not just a successful business, but a meaningful life. Her journey is a reminder that success is not only about achieving dreams—it’s about appreciating the journey and the people you meet along the way. Menomale Pizza Napoletana is more than just a restaurant—it’s a reflection of Mariya’s values and her commitment to community. If you ever find yourself in Washington, D.C., it’s a must-visit, offering not just authentic Neapolitan pizza but a space where connection and love come to life. Mariya’s story is one of resilience and faith, proving that with patience and empathy, the journey toward success is just as important as the destination. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Desiree Burgess
Camera Operator , Allen Chapel AME Church University of the District of Columbia class of 2028 Member Since November 2023 |
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